Before the Dubai Chocolate craze, the cheesy “pie” kunafa had its own fanbase. Kadayif, layered with cheese and nuts and soaked in attar, it’s a sugary sweet dessert that tastes best when it’s hot, gooey, and paired with a cup of qahwa or Arabic coffee. If this all sounds like your vibe, read on to catch the best kunafa spots in Dubai to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Kanafani
This Lebanese family-owned business has a kunafa recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. So it’s safe to say, you’re not just eating a sweet, but a part of history.
Al Samadi Sweets
Established in 1983, Al Samadi Sweets is a well-known Arabic sweets shop loved by locals and Arabic dessert enthusiasts alike. Beyond an authentically delicious kunafa, you can also get your hands on other traditional Arab sweets.
Feras Sweets
With multiple branches across the UAE, you’ve probably already come across Feras Sweets. With five varieties of kunafa to choose from, our favourite has got to be the kunafa ben naren, which is an overload of cream and cheese!
Nablus Kunafa
The origins of Kunafa are widely debated, with the Levantine region producing variations of the recipe. This one at Nablus takes us to the Palestinian origin. Located at Al Seef, you can find traditional Nablusi kanafeh at this charming restaurant
Al Baba Sweets
Serving quality sweets since 1950, Al Baba Sweets is one of those Lebanese sweet shops that will get you drooling by smell alone! Their kunafas are sweet and delectable in the classic Lebanese way.
Ibsais Sweets
Another spot for traditional Palestinian kunafa, this family-owned business makes sure to use Nabulsi cheese, staying true to the recipe’s origins.
Logma
This contemporary Khaleeji restaurant features a more modern take on the kunafa. Served with a scoop of ice cream, it balances the salty cheese layers.
Cake al Arab
Since kunafa has reached new levels of popularity with Dubai Chocolate, we thought it would be best to feature the reverse version. At Cake al Arab, you can find kunafa topped with chocolate instead of the other way around. The result? Simply delicious!
